Like all young people, LGBTQIA+ youth have a right to feel safe, accepted and welcomed in society so they are able to express themselves authentically, without being excluded or derided for who they are.

As a society, we have made leaps and bounds in understanding the harms that come to young people when they face bigotry, discrimination and exclusion – but we still have work to do to ensure that hateful attitudes and commentary are not platformed or presented as an ‘alternative’ view in mainstream discourse.

It is our collective role, as parents, educators, mentors, advocates, service providers, media and government to prevent harm and protect the safety of young LGBTQIA+ by challenging harmful stereotypes and queerphobic discourse, modelling equitable practices and fostering safe, supportive spaces for young people to thrive.

Research shows that people in the LGBTQIA+ community experience poorer mental health due to discrimination, bullying, stigma and exclusion – which for young people, is exacerbated by the risk factors that come with being young and navigating the many challenges and transitions experienced at this life stage.

Statistics from LGBTQIA+ organisation the Trevor Project note that young queer people are more than four times likely to attempt suicide than their peers.

The stigma and discrimination which is still experienced by LGBTQIA+ youth is long past due to become a relic of the past – we must continue to support and elevate the voices of young people in the LGBTQIA+ community, as members or allies.

Today is Wear it Purple Day – a time to advocate and empower young LGBTQIA+ people, celebrate diversity and inclusion and raise awareness on the struggles facing young queer people.

To find out about pride in the northeast and explore Wear it Purple Day events happening this afternoon, visit LINE Wangaratta.

To learn more about Wear it Purple Day visit the official website.